Blue Door Magazine | Issue 24

Laguna Beach Masterpiece

11 Montage Way

Laguna Beach

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Photo: Hugo Landa Garcia

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22 Scenes

Parties, galas, charitable gatherings, and more, including Childhelp South Coast Plaza fashion show, Laguna Art Museum auction, City of Hope, and a ballet premiere party at Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

34 Like Water for Chocolate

A photo essay captures one of OC’s most impactful dance premieres.

46 Serendipitous Style

Fetneh Blake Concept is an evolution of the owner’s passion for fashion and fine art.

50 Missoni Magic

The new West Coast exclusive boutique is part of the ongoing transformation of South Coast Plaza.

58 Vanishing Point

The Invisible House in Joshua Tree becomes one with the desert that surrounds it.

68 Equestrian Experience

The Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup USA at Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano.

70 Eyes Wide Open

Artist Julie Easton find beauty and order in cast-off objects.

ON THE COVER

Pool Party Tubes, 2023, by Julie Easton. On display at SCAPE’s Reiterations exhibition through May 2023.

Artist Julie Easton imbues everyday objects—rubber bands, cigarette butts, cash register receipts—with new life. Trained as a formalist, her work is substantially about texture and structure. The artist’s concerns are often best articulated through work that juxtaposes organic with manmade materials. Committed to a variety of disciplines, Easton’s sculptures, works on paper, and installations exemplify her view of the world in which the mundane often becomes extraordinary.

scapesite.com

EDITORIAL

editorial@bluedoormagazine.com

ART DIRECTOR

Randi Karabin randi@bluedoormagazine.com

SENIOR EDITOR

Alexandria Abramian

COPY EDITOR

Carrie Lightner

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Jenn Woolson

CONTRIBUTING

PHOTOGRAPHER

Hugo Landa Garcia

CFO

Jan Super 208.721.7926 jan@bluedoormagazine.com

FOUNDER

Justin Williams 208.720.2142 justin@bluedoormagazine.com

FOUNDING

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/ EDITOR EMERITUS

Kedric Francis Blue Door Magazine is published by Aspect Media LLC

Copyright © 2023 Aspect Media LLC

All rights reserved. The opinions expressed by the authors and contributors to Blue Door Magazine are not necessarily those of the editor and publisher.

Now in it’s 38th year

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 9, 2023

MENDOCINO COAST BOTANICAL GARDENS

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Benefiting:

Join us for Winesong 2023 at the beautiful Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens for a spectacular combination of creations by local chefs, wineries, artists and musicians in this lush ocean view location

CHILDHELP FASHION

Childhelp OC’s 37th annual “For the Love of a Child” Fashion Show and Luncheon sponsored by South Coast Plaza drew some 300 guests to the Balboa Bay Club. The fun and fashionable event co-chaired by Patti Edwards, Patricia Ford, and Pam Pharris raised more than $525,000 for Childhelp’s life-changing programs for abused and neglected children.

After a welcome by Orange County Chapter CoPresident Gina Van Ocker, guests were treated to a dynamic South Coast Plaza fashion show featuring

Photos by John Watkins

ba&sh, Bally, Camilla, Lafayette 148 New York, Maje, Reiss of London, Ted Baker, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Childhelp’s National Chair Patti Edwards presented Caitlin and John Stamos with the Children’s Friend award for their longstanding and ongoing generosity and support of Childhelp.

A raffle featured items from South Coast Plaza stores including Bally, Camilla, Lafayette 148 New York, Buccellati, Maje, Roger Vivier, Monique Lhuillier, David Yurman, Versace, plus a Dine Around featuring several OC restaurants, and a getaway at Balboa Bay Resort. The Grand Prize included a $2,500 shopping spree at South Coast Plaza. The VIP donor prize was a beautiful Roger Vivier evening bag adorned with beautiful crystals. Major donors and underwriters included Jacquie and Michael Casey, The Madeline and Marvin Gussman Family Foundation, and

and Jimmy Edwards.

childhelp.org

Patti

1. Kristin James, Linda Gattis, Kimberly Chavez

2. John Stamos, Caitlin Stamos and Patti Edwards

3. South Coast Plaza’s Stephanie Rogers accepts a floral thank you for her work on the fashion show

4. Childhelp Fashion Show Committee

5. Pam Pharris, Patti Edwards, John and Caitlin Stamos and Patricia Ford

6. Vonda Manley, Heather Denton, Tracy Morse, and Star Dust Donor Jacquie Casey

7. Katherine Meredith

The South Coast Plaza fashion show guests featured runway looks from ba&sh, Bally, Camilla, Lafayette 148 New York, Maje, Reiss of London, Ted Baker, and Saks Fifth Avenue. The show was produced by Shannon Davidson.

LIGHTING THE WAY

Photos by Werkit Photo

Illumination Foundation raised $1.5 million at the 10th Annual Chef’s Table gala at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim. Forty acclaimed chefs and 400 philanthropic individuals, businesses, and community leaders gathered to support Illumination Foundation. Event proceeds will provide ongoing programming support for the most vulnerable individuals, families, and seniors experiencing homelessness.

Chef’s Table was presented by Disneyland Resort, and featured delicious food prepared tableside by each chef. Each table of guests had a unique dining experience interacting with their chef throughout the evening.

Participating restaurants included ADYA; Descanso Restaurant; Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens; Henry’s Coastal Cuisine at the Waterfront Beach Resort; Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge; Napa Rose; Tableau Kitchen and Bar; URBANA Mexican Gastronomy; Vaca Restaurant; and Water Grill.

Chef’s Table was co-chaired by Illumination Foundation Board Chair Dr. Jacqueline DuPont-Carlson and Board Member Karen Jordan. The inaugural Legacy Award was presented to Illumination Foundation Co-Founders Paul Leon and Paul Cho to honor their collective vision and the legacy they have created at Illumination Foundation. The Haynes Fund was also recognized with a Legacy Award.

Illumination Foundation provides housing and healthcare to those experiencing homelessness, serving 6,423 people in 2022. ifhomeless.org

5. Event Co-Chair Dr. Jacqueline DuPont-Carlson, Co-CEO Jack Toan, Culinary Director of the Disneyland Resort Andrew Sutton, Co-CEO Dr. Pooja Bhalla, Co-Chair Karen Jordan

6. Vaca Restaurant Executive Chef Amar Santana and Chef de Cuisine, Edward Park

1. Sol Agave’s table setting

2. John Stamos, Caitlin Stamos, Debbie and Glen Bickerstaff

3. Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock, Dr. Pooja Bhalla, Water Grill Chef Peter Lai, Co-Chairs Karen Jordan and Dr. Jacqueline DuPont-Carlso.

4. Janet Vogelgesang

7. Auction Co-Chairs Dorothy Cobb and Mark Cobb

8. Magda Fichter

9. Table by Henry’s Coastal Cuisine at The Waterfront Beach Resort

CALIFORNIA COOL

Laguna Art Museum’s sold-out California Cool Art Auction, Benefit & Bash raised more than $450,000 to support the museum’s exhibitions, programs, and art education initiatives. The auction featured artworks from prominent California artists including Lita Albuquerque, Billy Al Bengston, Shepard Fairey, Joe Goode, Andy Moses, Ruth Pastine, Astrid Preston, Ed Ruscha, Fred Tomaselli, and Beth Waldman. Grammy-nominated Lee Rocker of the Stray Cats capped off the night with an electrifying performance. lagunaartmuseum.org

Photos by Reza Allahbakhshi

1. Monique Birault

2. Amy Fulford with Baldemar and Celia Fierro

3. Temi, David, and Jackie Krovblit

4. Jorg Dubin and Debbie Forsyth

5. Kathleen McNamee, Carol Dunstan, Kelly Berg, Julie Perlin Lee, and Andy Moses

6. LAM Trustee Greg MacGillivray with Harley and Kaira Rouda

7. Laguna Art Museum Trustees Steve and Kristin Samuelian

JULY 16, 2023 5:00-9:00 P.M

NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB

BENEFITING:

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kidworksoc.org

HIGH HOPES

The “Let’s Be Frank About Cancer” gala raised over $530,000 for City of Hope’s life-saving cancer research and programs. The ninth annual black-tie event, held at the Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach, was organized by cancer survivor and philanthropist Frank Di Bella. The night also honored noted philanthropists Kelly and Duane Roberts with the Frank Di Bella Humanitarian Award. Since its start in 2015, the gala has raised more than $9 million for City of Hope, with funds supporting research by oncologist Sumanta K. Pal, M.D. The gala also saw the attendance of community leaders, cancer survivors, and City of Hope supporters, including Dennis Kuhl, Chairman of Angels Baseball, Shannon Beador of The Real Housewives of OC, and CEO of Mechanics Bank John DeCero.

cityofhope.org

1. Cancer survivor and philanthropist Frank Di Bella held the ninth annual “Let’s Be Frank About Cancer” gala on March 18, raising funds for City of Hope’s life-saving cancer research and programs.

2. Duane and Kelly Roberts, noted Orange County philanthropists and “Keepers of the Inn” of the Mission Inn in Riverside, were honored with the Frank Di Bella Humanitarian Award.

3. Gala Host Committee Member Scot Matteson and Jennifer Brown

4. Jann Carl, former Entertainment Tonight correspondent and co-host of the breakout reality hit Small Town Big Deal , was the gala’s emcee.

5. On the dance floor

6. Katherine Sears

7. Live entertainment by Tino Productions

8. Shannon Beador, The Real Housewives of Orange County star

9. Let’s Be Frank About Cancer gala’s elegant table setting and cuisine

10. Devon and Jacqueline Niccole

ABT BALLET BASH

Photos by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging

The North American premiere of American Ballet Theatre’s Like Water for Chocolate was an essential Orange County art and culture experience. Dance aficianados, Segerstrom Center for the Arts regulars, and those who rarely attend ballet all agreed that the stunning new production is one of the most beautiful and moving they’d ever seen.

The production by choreographer Christopher Wheeldon brings the novel by Laura Esquivel (and the film that followed) to another level of artistic excellence.

For major supporters of Segerstrom Center for the Arts and ABT, South Coast Plaza luxury retailers, and friends of Elizabeth Segerstrom, the evening began with an intimate dinner in the extravagantly decorated

lobby of the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. As guests approached the red carpet entrance with its stunning floral decor, young dance students from the ABT Gillespie School at Segerstrom Center for the Arts greeted them.

After the epic opening night performance, some 350 guests, including the cast of Like Water for Chocolate, ABT and Segerstrom Center luminaries, guests from the earlier dinner, and other invitees, returned to the concert hall for a festive after-party sponsored by South Coast Plaza. Patina chef Alfonso Ramirez recreated dishes from the Esquivel book.

The premiere of the ballet was underwritten by Elizabeth Segerstrom and the Spenuzza Velastegui Family Foundation. American Ballet Theatre will perform Like Water for Chocolate in New York at the Metropolitan Opera House June 22-July 23, 2023.

scfta.org

abt.org/ballet/like-water-for-chocolate

1. Cocktails in the concert hall

2. Debra Gunn Downing, ABT Artistic Director Susan Jaffe, and Elizabeth Segerstrom

3. ABT dancers Ziggy Jing Fang, Christine Schevkeko, and Cassandra Trenary

4. ABT dancers Ziggy Jing Fang and Calvin Royal III with ABT Gillespie School dancers Macallum, Gisella, and Rosey

5. Christopher Wheeldon, Like Water for Chocolate choreographer, with philanthropist Elizabeth Segersterom

6. Tony Esnault, Yassmin Sarmadi, owners of Knife Pleat, and John Forsyte, CEO and president of Pacific Symphony

7. Casey Reitz, President, Segerstrom Center for the Arts

8. Elizabeth Segerstrom with Like Water for Chocolate dancers Daniel Camargo and SunMi Park

LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE

A photo essay captures the intimate beauty of one of the most impactful dance premieres ever presented at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Photos and descriptions by Elaina Francis

Christopher Wheeldon’s latest ballet Like Water for Chocolate from American Ballet Theatre had six fiery performances in the ballet’s North American Premiere at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Center audiences were the first in the country to experience this magical Mexican love story with the stellar dancers of ABT translating this richly layered tale.

This family saga set in 19th-century Mexico tells the story of Tita, a young Mexican woman who is overwhelmed by a sense of duty and family tradition, unable to marry until her mother dies.

In the novel, Esquival writes, “For Tita, the joy of living was wrapped up in the delights of food.” Emotion runs deep, her only form of expression spilling out from the kitchen—influencing everyone around her in startling and dramatic ways. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she falls

Newlyweds Pedro (Daniel Camargo) and Rosaura (Chloe Misseldine) dance an avoidant post-nuptial pas de deux, often joined at the hands but facing back-to-back, as Pedro has not stopped yearning for his beloved Tita.

in forbidden love with her wealthy neighbor Pedro. Her mother offers Pedro the hand of Tita’s sister, Rosaura, and Pedro reluctantly marries her to remain in Tita’s life. Their hidden passion has far-reaching—and devastating—consequences.

Tita’s magic—and power—lies in her ability to channel her feelings into the food she cooks, sending all who consume it into waves of emotion, from deep sorrow to erotic passion.

Co-presented by the Segersrom Center for the Arts and ABT, and led by Artistic Director Susan Jaffe, the three-act work is set to an original score by Joby Talbot and inspired by Laura Esquivel’s captivating and bestselling novel of the same name.

Esquivel’s original novel has sold more than 4.5 million copies around the world and has been translated into more than 30 languages, while the memorable film adaptation won ten Ariel Awards (Mexico’s highest film honor) including Best Picture and, at the time of its release in 1992, was the highest-grossing foreign film in the United States and Canada.

Esquivel says, “Having Christopher and his team transform my story into a ballet is truly magical for me. It was a great pleasure to have them visit

Sunmi Park (Tita) Tita has prepared a meal for the family using rose petals, which were once given to her by her beloved Pedro. Middle sister Gertrudis, portrayed brilliantly by Skylar Brandt, consumes the meal only to immediately feel its sensual effects.

As rose petals fall from above, the scene shifts from the family dinner to a moment of subtle eroticism. The ensemble scene features Skylar Brandt as Gertrudis, an unashamed seductress, tempting and beckoning to all who come near.

Act I, Scene 4, “Quail in Rose Petal Sauce” feels like a key moment in classical ballet for its portrayal of female sexuality. Instead of hinting at promiscuity, Christopher Wheeldon’s choreography implies only delight.

Skylar Brandt’s performance as Gertrudis is one of a young woman completely at ease with her own desires. Her grande jetés and her smiling eyes are equally open, and she is unabashedly comfortable in seeking her own pleasure.

As the scene ends, this open attitude toward sex as a gratifying experience is reinforced when Gertrudis is carried off on horseback by revolutionary soldier Juan Alejandrez. In allowing her a fulfilled sexual identity, this supporting character then becomes a heroine, and later returns to the ranch as a top commander herself. Gertrudis reminds us that pleasure may be sought and enjoyed, without fear of consequence or harm.

Tita and Pedro are briefly united and alleviated of guilt, when Tita discovers her mother’s diary revealing Mama Elena’s hypocrisy. Their joy is short-lived, however, when the ghost of Mama Elena comes back to haunt them.

Zhong-Jing Fang, Daniel Camargo, and Sunmi Park dance as the ghost of Mama Elena confronts Pedro and Tita in Act II.

The final scene of Act III shows our tragic lovers finally rid of all roadblocks to their coupling. Tita and Pedro are able to fully surrender to each other in the production’s most breathtaking moment.

Mexico for extensive research and to develop the scenario together. I am amazed at how Christopher can translate deep emotions into movement, and I can’t wait to see this wonderful creative adventure unfold.”

Wheeldon worked closely with Esquivel to reshape her story of magical realism into an entertaining and engrossing new ballet with a newly commissioned score by Joby Talbot and designs by Bob Crowley. Mexican conductor Alondra de la Parra will lead Pacific Symphony with the addition of featured Mexican musician Tomás Barreiro on solo guitar. Lighting is by Natasha Katz and video design is by Luke Halls.

“Nothing could be sweeter than hosting the North American Premiere of Like Water for Chocolate for American Ballet Theatre’s spring engagement at Segerstrom Center for the Arts,” says Judy Morr, Executive Vice President for Segerstrom Center for the Arts. “To give our patrons and ballet aficionados the unique opportunity of being the first audience in the country to see this magical Mexican love story come to life with the extraordinary and talented ABT dancers is exciting.”

Devon Teuscher and Joowon Ahn as Tita and Pedro as they are at last free to be together.

Joowon Ahn and Devon Teuscher

Act III, Scene 2 “The Ranch” is a visual masterpiece, ranging from stillness to full-stage movement, all of it equally poetic. The couple begins the scene with their hands placed over each other’s hearts, taking a moment to simply breathe. Then ensues an athletic, motion-driven pas de deux, ending in a bed of fiery passion. Slowly, their intertwined forms begin to lift as flames engulf their bed, rising higher and higher until the entire stage has become a burning symbol of their passion. While the choreographer’s interpretations and the dancer’s executions deserve an ovation, one should take a moment to also applaud other members of the crew. The costumers, set designers, stage managers, audio engineers, lighting designers and many more all deserve extensive praise for creating an environment on the Segerstrom Center for the Arts stage that allowed the intensity of this love to burn in all of us.

Like Water for Chocolate received its World Premiere from The Royal Ballet on June 2, 2022, at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London. Following the North American Premiere engagement at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, the New York Premiere will take place Thursday evening, June 22 at 6:30 PM at the Metropolitan Opera House, through Saturday, July 1, during ABT’s Summer season at Lincoln Center.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts scfta.org

American Ballet Theatre abt.org/ballet/like-water-for-chocolate/

SERENDIPITOUS STYLE

Fetneh Blake Concept is an evolution of the owner’s passion for fashion and fine arts

Fetneh Blake always dreamed of opening her own store, but the way her unique immersive experience Fetneh Blake Concept has evolved wasn’t really planned. After working at Barney’s New York as a manager and opening an art gallery with her former husband in 1993, she finally found a way to turn her passion for fashion and fine arts into something uniquely hers. Her eponymous boutique opened in Laguna Beach just weeks after 9/11 in 2001.

“We didn’t really have the idea then of concept stores,” Blake says. “It’s really in recent years that the world of fashion and art and design are becoming more intertwined. I think that the store naturally evolved to being a concept store without me really planning it.”

Even more evolution happened in 2019 when Blake moved the store from Laguna Beach to the Crystal Cove Promenade. The new space allowed her to have a more focused vision to create an immersive experience that features revolving contemporary art installations, modern collectible home design, and expertly curated fashion from around the world, much of the latter from emerging designers Blake is excited to introduce to her clients.

Fetneh Blake Concept features unique finds from her treasure hunting trips to Istanbul, India, and Morocco as well as favorites from Fashion Week in Paris, London, and New York. She typically favors timeless over trendy, though. “Ultimately,” she says, “I show what I love and what inspires me because I feel like it’s an extension of who I am.” Part of who she is includes a style she defines as sophisticated and effortless, but fundamentally about function. “I don’t like to wear something that’s going to wear me.”

Fetneh Blake wearing French designer Marc Le Bihan, perched on a 1950s Marco Zanuso “Triennale” Corner Sofa. Painting by Lita Albuquerque and “Liquid Marble Table” by Mathieu Lehanneur

Blake also always keeps her clients in mind: people who love to shop and who want pieces that express their individuality. “They want to wear something that makes people think, ‘Where did she get that?’” That desire keeps Blake busy, trying to always ensure she has new and different pieces for clients who have been coming to her boutique since it opened more than 20 years ago. “These women can shop anywhere in the world and buy anything. To keep them engaged and keep them coming back keeps me on my toes!”

To spark their interest, Blake is constantly on the hunt for the next big thing. In the fashion world, she’s currently excited about a few designers including Simone Rocha from London. “Her background is in art and her fashions are an art form. The way she expresses herself—it’s so poetic, so feminine, so beautiful.” She also appreciates Paris designer Marc Le Bihan for his exceptional tailoring and Los Angeles designer Jaga. “Most of the time, I’m wearing Jaga because it’s so effortless and at the same time beautiful. It’s no fuss.”

The boutique’s rotating art exhibits often include inviting the artist to give a talk about their work on opening day. “People love that,” Blake says. “It’s such an interesting time and it’s exciting to talk with the artists about their vision.”

One of Blake’s favorite fine artists of the moment is Lita Albuquerque, an American artist whose work she calls stunning and fascinating. “I see people when they walk outside the store and see her artwork through the window. It stops people in their tracks.”

Next up for Blake might be another serendipitous evolution. On one of her treasure hunting trips to Morocco, her departure was delayed for a few days. During her downtime, she discovered some skincare oils, which she brought home and started using to make her own facial serums. It’s another accidental evolution that might just turn into her next big thing.

“Ultimately, I show what I love and what inspires me because I feel like it’s an extension of who I am.”

Models wearing Uma Wang at a fashion event hosted by Fetneh Blake

Model wearing London-based designer Simone Rocha

MISSONI MAGIC

The new West Coast exclusive boutique is part of the ongoing transformation of South Coast Plaza’s luxury fashion and fine jewelry brand collection.

Missoni fuses fabrics and styles, creating a stylistic intepretation of a timeless lifestyle

Though new to Orange County, Missoni has played a key role in the history of Italian style and design, maintaining a remarkable integrity over almost seven decades. Filippo Grazioli joined Missoni as creative director, bringing a new vision while maintaining the joyfulness, freshness, sense of color, and positivity that are the core qualities of Missoni. Grazioli’s goal is to create a new heritage, finding his inspiration in Missoni archives and re-interpretating it in a contemporary way.

Missoni debuted at South Coast Plaza this spring, bringing another fashonable brand to the center’s Din Tai Fung wing. The area of South Coast Plaza that was once home to Sears, McDonald’s, and a knife store now features cutting-edge new stores from Gentle Monster and Alexander Wang, with boutiques from Palm Angels, Byredo, and Rimowa coming to that side of the center soon.

And that’s just part of the transformational era underway at the destination shopping center. Insiders say that a year from now, we’ll hardly recognize the place. Cartier is expanding, Bulgari, and Van Cleef & Arpels are moving to bigger and better homebases, and Graf is coming.

Gucci will build a two-story starchitect-designed flagship, relocating soon to a Bloomingdale’s-adjacent space in the interm. Balenciaga will debut its own double-decker store next to Gucci. Giorgio Armani will relocate into a stunning new space (the old Coach, plus the café), while Balmain and A.P.C. will please Francophiles with long-sought new stores. The lower-level Saks Fifth Avenue wing will see new boutiques from Lanvin, plus OTB brands Marni (now in a pop-up on the West Side), Masion Margiela, and Jil Sander.

The closed stores and construction barriers one sees at South Coast Plaza this spring are signs of success, and an exciting season of change and renewal after the challenges of recent years. Perhaps by this time next year we will have a glimpse of the next chapter at South Coast Plaza: the future for the Sears property and South Coast Plaza Village.

Bold colors stand out in the Missoni spring-summer 2023 campaign.

NEW BOUTIQUE PEEK

Located in South Coast Plaza, the new Missoni store reveals its identity in the entrance hall design. The iconic zig-zag movement that characterizes Missoni fabrics is cleverly conjured with colors, vertical metal elements, and slashes of light that create dynamic energy, like a surface in movement.

Inside the store lies a succession of walls that gently connect to each other. Created partly in metal slats, and partly with ceramic tiles with a 3D zigzag pattern, the goal is to create a single continuous space across which the customer’s eye can slide without obstacles. Around the perimeter, as a background detail, it is possible to identify the graphic texture of the internationallyfamous knitwear that has become the key feature of Missoni style.

The architectural concept is to create a neutral environment wherein colors and fabrics of the clothing and accessories can stand out, without ever renouncing a certain level of characteristic style and refinement in the use and choice of materials and lighting. The new architectural concept speaks volumes about the world of Missoni, highlighting the product without ever overwhelming it.

Much attention has been paid to the use of sustainable materials, in accordance with the brand principles. Eco-friendly products with a circular life cycle have been used, responding to the necessity of a green economy.

The store offers Missoni clothing and accessories collections for men and women, Missoni home collection, as well as Missoni watches, fragrances, and glasses.

Missoni

South Coast Plaza

3333 Bristol Street

Costa Mesa

southcoastplaza.com

Missoni collections for men and women share a similar palette. Use of primary colors, in both light and dark shades, mix with optical white to add a more contemporary touch.

PHOTO BY CHRIS HANLEY

VANISHING POINT

The Invisible House in Joshua Tree becomes one with the desert that surrounds it.

PHOTO BY CHRIS HANLEY

PHOTO BY BRIAN ASHBY

PHOTO BY BRIAN ASHBY

Producers Chris and Roberta Hanley are known for their innovative film projects, including the cult hit American Psycho and Sofia Coppola’s directorial debut, The Virgin Suicides

When the couple decided to design and build a house, they wanted something as cutting-edge as their cinema. The Hanleys partnered with architect Tomas Orsinski, a Frank Gehry collaborator, to design their Invisible House in Joshua Tree. Sitting on 67 acres, the 5,500-square-foot, three-bedroom home is listed for sale at $18 million.

TopTenRealEstateDeals.com

The listing is with Aaron Kirman and Matt Adamo of AKG | Christie’s International Real Estate. akgre.com aaronkirman.com/listings/the-invisible-house/

VIP EQUESTRIAN EXPERIENCE

For the first time in history, equestrian sport’s oldest and most prestigious team challenge came to the West Coast. This international event combined a week-long equestrian competition with a three-day VIP social event. Many of the world’s top show-jumping athletes competed at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano for the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup USA. Four teams of riders from the U.S., Ireland, Canada, and Mexico faced off on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 14, not only for the win in the day’s event but also for highly important qualifying points.

“We hit the competition with some major firepower,” says Robert Ridland, the U.S. team Chef d’Equipe who resides in Irvine. “The reason is that we are trying to qualify for the Nations Cup Final, which is in Barcelona in the first week in October. If we win that, we get an automatic bid to the [2024] Olympic Games in Paris.”

With that goal in mind, the U.S. team brought out the big guns, including former Olympians McLain Ward and Laura Kraut and accomplished grand prix riders Karl Cook, Lillie Keenan, and Nick Dello Joio.

In addition to bringing the best of equestrian sport to San Juan Capistrano, event host Blenheim EquiSports enlisted renowned chef Azmin Ghahreman of Sapphire Catering to provide a VIP dining experience throughout the weekend, culminating in a Mother’s Day brunch. The event was one of more than 10 weeks of show-jumping competition held throughout the year at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, and the Nations Cup in particular was a strong indicator of the caliber of sport Blenheim EquiSports continues to bring to San Juan Capistrano.

“As an Olympic athlete and coach, I have trained at some of the finest facilities in the world and am passionate about bringing this level of excellence to our competition venue in San Juan Capistrano,” says Ridland. Sponsored by South Coast Plaza, the fun-filled weekend was familyfriendly, with lots of shopping, food, music, and entertainment in addition to the equestrian competition.

Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park

30753 La Pata Road

San Juan Capistrano

theplacetojump.com

USANationsCup.com

EYES WIDE OPEN. BEAUTY IN EVERYTHING.

Julie Easton REITERATIONS

On exhibit at SCAPE through May 2023

“The I Ching says, The most perfect grace consists not in external ornamentation, but in allowing the original material to stand forth, beautified by being given form. Through experimentation with everyday objects, my insatiable curiosity leads me in a search for beauty and order.”

—Julie Easton

Cigarette butts. Rubber bands. Coffee cup protectors. Cash register receipts. Bicycle inner tubes. Discarded, cast-off materials are imbued with new life to become works of art in the hands of Julie Easton. The artist, who currently lives and works in Santa Monica, makes art that places everyday materials at the center of meaning.

Trained as a formalist, Easton work is substantially about texture and structure, and her choice of materials informs and directs her artist concepts. Committed to a variety of disciplines, her sculptures, works on paper, and installations exemplify her view of the world in which the mundane often becomes extraordinary.

“When choosing a cast-off, the material always leads and informs the direction the work will take,” Easton says. “I begin by coaxing it and then follow it to its destination. The process is pure engagement, fascination, and delight.”

Artist Julie Easton juxtaposes organic and manmade materials— including rubber bands, wax, cigarette butts, and porcelain—to create movement and rhythm.

ARTIST STATEMENT

Through experimentation with everyday objects, my insatiable curiosity leads me in a search for beauty and order. By pairing materials that resonate with one another, I use repetition to create a reflective or hypnotic state. It’s all about the process … the discovery, the play, the juxtaposition of unlikely materials. I feel like a visual scientist investigating the question, “What happens if I do this?” The process of making is my meditation. Close examination of ubiquitous manmade materials fascinates me. Situating objects in a new context is the ongoing challenge that keeps the sport of art-making invigorating. Imbuing the mundane with new life is the goal of the game.

Coffee Break Porsche Gray, 2023. Aluminum, powder coating, plexiglass, custom frame (26 x 26 inches).

Southern California Art Projects + Exhibitions SCAPE

2855 East Coast Highway Corona del Mar 949.376.3785 info@scapesite.com scapesite.com

Julie Easton and Jeannie Denholm in front of Easton’s Urban Tapestry Slit, 2023. Cigarette butts, street striping paint, canvas (60 x 72 inches).

RONA’S RAVE

La Cornue Chateau Range: The must-have appliance of Rona Graf of Grace Blu

I want to share with you one of my current favorite appliances: the La Cornue Chateau range. It’s a true masterpiece of culinary craftsmanship that blends both artistry and function. The range delivers precise temperature control and even heat distribution, making it ideal for novice and experienced cooks alike. It’s also designed with a spacious oven to accommodate multiple dishes at once, which is perfect for effortless entertaining.

What sets the La Cornue Chateau range apart is its versatility. It’s available in various sizes, colors, and finishes, making it an excellent fit for any design aesthetic. I’m currently incorporating it into a project on Lido Isle, and I can’t wait to see how it transforms the space.

If you’re looking to elevate your culinary experience and add a statement piece to your kitchen, the La Cornue Chateau range is a must-have. Trust me, it’s a product you’ll love right now.

Rona Graf graceblu.com

La Cornue lacornueusa.com/chateau

BLUE DOOR MAGAZINE MEMBERS INSPIRE WITH INSIGHTS AND INSIDER INFO FROM THEIR LIVES ALONG THE ORANGE COUNTY COAST

JON FLAGG

I came to Lido Isle as a Head Tennis Pro in 1992, and it turned out to be an amazing career opportunity for me. I was hesitant at first, thinking it would be just a small, quiet community, but I was immediately welcomed with open arms. After teaching tennis on the island for 10 years, I was ready for a change and decided to try my hand at real estate. Luckily, some of the families I had worked with on the tennis courts gave me the opportunity to represent them in a real estate transaction, and my business began to grow.

What I love about Lido Isle is the casual and friendly nature of the community, where everyone feels like family. It's also in a great location with access to some of the best dining and shopping in Newport Beach. The Yacht Club, Tennis Club, Men’s Club, Women’s Club, private beach, parks, and events bring the community together. The island has a low-key and fun environment, where you never know who might own the least or most expensive home.

Jon Flagg

949.533.7878

jon@flaggrealestate.com

Kyle Flagg

949.514.5113

kyle@flaggrealestate.com

840

jonflagg.com

Teaching tennis taught me a lot about hard work and dedication, which has carried over into my real estate career. I've been able to help countless families find their dream homes and sell their properties with ease. If you're looking to buy or sell a property on Lido Isle or in Newport Beach, I'd be happy to help.

LAURA BROPHY

For me, life is all about finding people and places that inspire and provide fresh perspective. And that’s exactly why I love exploring Los Angeles. The city is bursting with creativity, from its talented artisans to its mega showrooms and diverse collection of galleries. Every time I’m there, I discover something new that I can take back to the studio and apply to my projects.

When it comes to designing spaces, each project is a journey, and my goal is always to create moments of joy and contentment for everyone who walks through the doors. I believe that careful thought and meaning should always be at the core of what I do, and that the positive energy I put into my work ripples out into the world.

To really make a strong emotional connection to a well-designed home or business, I always focus on the perfect combination of form, function, empathy, and value. These elements work together to create a kind of magic that elevates the experience of being in that space. That’s what truly inspires me and it’s the reason I do what I do. And the result is always something that’s unique and special.

Laura Brophy Principal, Laura Brophy Interiors Studio: 949.614.0101 brophyinteriors.com

Paulo Prietto DRE 01878796

Rising impressively above Summit Drive, the residence at 794 Summit is a surprisingly spacious and sophisticated home. Once inside, the sense of neighbors and the street below melts away and the gorgeous ocean views command your attention. The main level, accessible by elevator from the street level, is a study in gracious open living with pocketing doors allowing seamless indoor/ outdoor living and access to a generously sized ocean view terrace. The upper level of the home hosts a sumptuous primary suite with an abundant private view deck, and a large fully finished home office with dual desks. Straddling a street-to-street parcel, the property comes with a rare commodity for view living in Laguna Beach – abundant parking with a two car garage and room for two additional vehicles below, and off-street private parking for up to four more vehicles above. The finish level and bespoke detail work is superb, creating a special environment that feels like no other home.

794 Summit Drive l Laguna Beach Comtemporary Masterpiece Offered at $4,450,000

Beach LOVE

Never has it been more clear – we are fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world, also graced with one of the best climates. Coastal Orange County has something for everyone - abundant natural spaces, distinct cultural and community resources, and destination shopping and dining.

Whether you are a new arrival to the coast, you are looking to move within our special locale, or if you just have questions, our team understands the ins and outs of our specialized markets. With more than 90 years of cumulative experience and $1.5 billion in sales under our belt, our focus is always on a successful outcome for you.

*Photograph courtesy of the Orange County Historical Society from the Tom Pulley Postcard Collection.

Mike Johnson | DRE 01429647

michael.johnson@compass.com

949.207.3735

mikejohnsongroup.com

We Are HUMBLED What Our Clients SAY

“

Working with the Mike Johnson Group was truly one of the finest business experiences we’ve had in a long time. We were impressed with every member of the Compass team, and as the process proceeded, became doubly impressed with the calibre of the staff’s knowledge as well as their genuinely sincere concern for realizing a satisfying outcome for both us as sellers as well as the buyers. We’ve purchased over ten residential and commercial properties over the years in good times and more challenging, and this was undoubtedly the most professional and smoothest sales experience we’ve ever had.

-Geoff & Deb G

Unrivaled Laguna Beach realty team. Deep knowledge of Laguna and its unique character. Creative, profitable and ethical problem solving by local Laguna agents. In my transactions, deadlines and financial goals met precisely. These agents listen. I felt heard and supported through the entire process. Absolutely top notch!

-Betsy P.

I am the managing partner for a multi billion $ real estate investment firm that invests throughout the United States. I come into contact with brokers, both commercial and residential, on a daily basis. Mike is simply the finest real estate broker I have ever worked with, either commercial or residential. Extraordinarily professional, he knows his craft intimately and takes a relationship oriented perspective to his clients.

-Rob & Berni N.

1207 DOLPHIN TERRACE FOR LEASE COMING SOON

CDMs Prestigious Irvine Terrace Front Row!

Breathtaking Panoramic Bay and Ocean Views

1215 DOLPHIN TERRACE FOR LEASE COMING SOON

CDMs Prestigious Irvine Terrace Front Row!

Panoramic Bay and Ocean Views

DRE# 01432316

DRE#

1712 THURSTON DR. OFFERED AT $6,999,000

Laguna Beach “Wave House” meticulously maintained and inspired by Gaudi is an entertainer’s dream

416 LEGION ST. / 575 THROUGH ST. SOLD AT $3,900,000

Laguna Beach 3-Unit with Ocean Views

1972 PORT RAMSGATE FOR LEASE COMING SOON New Construction in Newport Beach’s ‘Pride of the Port’ Streets

2266 CHANNEL RD. FOR LEASE $55,000/MO.

Bayfront Gem with 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, and over 4,300 sq. ft. of living space

THE ISLAND HOUSE presents

2724 OCEAN BLVD, CORONA DEL MAR

Embraced by an unparalleled homesite with appx. 276’ of frontage that extends nearly 11,896 square feet and combines three lots with no adjoining properties, this exquisite estate by award-winning architect Brion Jeanette encompasses 7 beds, 10 baths, a third-level game room with open-air deck, loft, dual offices, media room with glassenclosed appx. 650-bottle wine cellar, 15-seat home theater, cutting-edge technology and stunning panoramic views.

SCAN TO WATCH FILM

Co-Listed by LuXre Realty, Inc.

challenging and uncertain of times, we continue to meet and exceed our clients practices, creative and virtual marketing, and our extensive network, opened/closed 10 escrow sides during Covid-19 . Once again, we proven results of the Bradshaw Residential Group to work for you.

After gallery at BradshawResidentialGroup.com/Remodel

Even in the most challenging and uncertain of times, we continue to meet and exceed our clients needs. With the use of safe practices, creative and virtual marketing, and our extensive network, we have successfully opened/closed 10 escrow sides during Covid-19 . Once again, we invite you to put the proven results of the Bradshaw Residential Group to work for you.

JASON

JASON BRADSHAW

Bradshaw Residential Group 949.433.3001

jason@bradshawresidential.com

DRE# 01304396

DREAM TEAM

A collaborative new construction in Corona del Mar sets a high bar for the Village

For this home, the winning lineup included a collaboration among JFB Custom homes, Mark Teale Architecture, and VALIA Properties’ Design & Consult team; along with landscape designer Chelsea Corinne and interior designers Laura Brophy and Julie Peterson, all hand-picked to create a coastal oasis, on Jasmine Avenue, in Corona del Mar’s coveted 200 block.

A recently completed home in Corona del Mar elevates the notion of indoor/outdoor living. Standout details include the front terrace that is finished in premium reclaimed brick parfeuilles from the south of France and custom-colored marine-grade cedar.

Interior designers Julie Peterson and Laura Brophy collaborated to create an seri,es of spaces known for laid-back luxury. Organic elements include underfinished woods, hand-forged details. and an abundance of plant life.

Residing in the heart of the prestigious Corona del Mar neighborhood, a stunning new custom home has taken shape at 226 Jasmine Avenue. Designed with indoor-outdoor living in mind, this architectural masterpiece is a true testament to the impeccable craftsmanship and vision of Jami Bahrami, the owner of JFB Custom Homes. The home’s ideal blend of natural organic materials, including wood, steel, stucco, and a natural palette, creates a warm and inviting ambiance, while still maintaining a modern edge.

The home boasts an impressive 5 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, as well as a rooftop deck with stunning ocean views, an interior courtyard, and multiple water features. The shared efforts of the designers, Laura Brophy and Julie Peterson, have created a space that is both luxurious and welcoming, with soaring ceilings and a 16-foot kitchen island that is the perfect centerpiece for entertaining. The butler’s pantry provides ample space for scullery and catering needs, making hosting dinner parties a breeze.

One of the most impressive features of the home is its seamless integration with the outdoors. The outdoor living spaces include an outdoor shower, perfect after a day at the beach, and a three-car garage, providing ample space for all your vehicles. The landscape designer, Chelsea Corine Studios, has brought the outside in with lush greenery and natural accents, creating a serene environment that is perfect for relaxation.

Architect Mark Teale and JFB Custom Homes synergistically left no detail overlooked in the creation of this stunning residence. The home’s oversized 45ft wide lot ensures that there is ample space for all your family’s needs, while the elevator provides easy access to all floors. The result is a home that seamlessly blends luxury with functionality, creating the ultimate dream home in one of the most sought-after locations in Southern California.

JFB Custom Homes have paid attention to thoughtful details with the creation of this stunning new custom home in Corona del Mar. With its perfect blend of natural organic materials, seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces, and impeccable attention to detail, this home is a true masterpiece. The talent and vision of Jami Bahrami, along with the contributions of the talented designers, architects, and landscape designers, have brought this dream home to life.

VALIA Properties-Design/Consult info@valiaoc.com 949.673.0789

Jami Bahrami/JFB Custom Homes-Builder jami@jfbhomes.com 949.491.4947

Mark Teale-Architect mteal9@gmail.com 949.975.0123

Chelsea Corinne-Landscape Design chelsea@chelseacorinnestudio.com 949.887.0247

Laura Brophy-Home Stylist laura@brophyinteriors.com 949.614.0101

Julie Peterson-Interior Design julie@carlaroyderdesigns.com 858.232.4173

Mark Teale defies the closed-box concept to create a home that embraces both indoor and outdoor areas and true livable spaces.

Prime Positioning: 180-degree ocean and beach views flood into this Smithcliffs sanctuary that is geared toward living indoors and out.

ROOMS WITH A VIEW

On the market: A Smithcliffs custom estate offers unparalleled ocean vistas and incredibly rare amenities

By Alexandria Abramian

This four-bedroom, nine-bathroom home also responds to its unique location by integrating Smithcliffs iconic pine trees into its design. Coastal pines provide natural coverage for a series of outdoor areas, including an outdoor dining area off the kitchen as well as a series of patios, decks, and hidden gardens, which are found on both floors.

“You walk into this home and you are truly transported to another place,” says listing agent Amy Calvert of The Smith Group. “To see that cove from above with the boats coming in an out? It’s one of the best views of Emerald Bay.”

The grandeur of the location is reflected within the home itself where an array of settings effortlessly connect, welcoming both grand-scale entertaining and relaxed everyday living. Sand-colored stone and natural woods are used throughout the open-concept main level living areas, which include a foyer with a floating spiral staircase, a great room that opens to the main terrace via glass sliding doors, and a fully appointed kitchen with custom wood cabinetry. A formal dining room opens to the outdoors via newer Fleetwood French doors.

But Calvert is quick to point out that it isn’t just the views, along with the Italian villa-inspired design and craftsmanship, that make the home exceptional. There’s also the little detail of its sprawling, 11-car subterranean garage. “Only four homes have sold in Laguna Beach with more than a 10 or more car garage. Add to the fact that this is located in a gated community and you have an exceptional opportunity to purchase a large estate home where homes are typically smaller,” says Calvert of the area that has fewer than 25 homes in Smithcliffs, a tight-knit community known for its privacy and security.

And for the non-car collecting home buyer? Calvert adds that the garage level also includes a gym, bathroom, kitchenette as well as— wait for it—indoor pickleball court. “The current owners only park two cars there and use the space for a variety of other activities.”

The home is listed for $12.9m by Amy Calvert of The Smith Group. amy@timsmithgroup.com 949.981.9047 smithgrouprealestate.com

Indoors and out connect effortlessly, from the interior courtyard and entryway to the main living area that doubles in size when the Fleetwood doors are opened.

PANCHO’S PLACE

Long before it was home to some of the most sought-after real estate in the world, the ten-acre Smithcliffs estate in Laguna Beach was party central for a pioneering aviator

View of the main Smithcliffs residence and gardens circa 1991, with Emerald Bay in the distance.

Photographs by Bill Agee 1991. Courtesy of Library of Congress. Taken as part of Historic American Buildings Survey of the National Park Service.

As Montage Laguna Beach celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, we recall that the global destination resort and residential project was made better (public walkways, a park, and view corridors from PCH) thanks to conflict, concessions, and ultimately a degree of collaboration between developers, government, and local activists and NIMBYs. Coastal Orange County is better as a result.

On the other end of PCH in Laguna Beach there is another stunning blufftop property with its own contentious, decadelong entitlement history: Smithcliffs.

The property has an intriguing past, and was once home to one of California’s most colorful characters, the illustrious aviator Florence “Pancho” Barnes, who lived at what was then called Dos Rocos in the 1920s. The estate was 40 acres back then, and owned by Pancho’s grandmother, Mrs. Caroline W. Dobbins, who bought the land in 1915. When Pancho was there, Dos Rocos often drew Hollywood friends of Barnes down for the frequent festivities said to include nude horseback riding and swimming in the first freshwater swimming pool in Laguna Beach.

View of the main residence from the outside tile table facing south.

The main residence and gardens facing northwest. The 1991 architectural report stated, “A survey of the style of the main residential structure defies categorization, but could mostly be described as a modified bungalow.”

Tile table and concrete designed fence facing west. Emerald Bay is in the background

When Pancho decided she wanted to learn to fly, she asked a friend and aspiring photographer to shoot a photo of her required for the pilot license application. She dressed as a man for the photo so as to get past the misogynist eye of Orville Wright, who reviewed applications.

It worked. She became the first female stunt pilot in Hollywood, Lockheed’s first female test pilot, founded one of the first unions in Hollywood, and set numerous air speed records. She also introduced Hurrell to her Hollywood friends, and he went on to become one of cinema’s most famous portrait photographers. Pancho later became the owner of the Happy Bottom Riding Club in the Mojave Desert, and her friendship with Chuck Yeager and other test pilots was depicted in The Right Stuff. Her grandmother sold 10 acres of the property to the Howards in 1929, who sold it to the Smiths in 1951.

Today, 21 homes on 26 lots (Chuck and Twyla Martin were savvy enough to build on six lots) occupy the 10-acre site. It was developed by Gary Brinderson, who bought the property from Marguerite Smith for a reported $15 million in 1985 (a single Smithcliffs home is listed for $12.9 million today).

View of the lookout point from the porch of the main residence facing southwest.

Brinderson’s original plan was to split the acreage, live on half, and develop the rest. But those plans were delayed and changed as the County of Orange and Laguna Beach fought over annexation of the parcel (previously unincorporated OC), and as environmentalists fought to protect 100 or so Torrey and other pine tree species then on the property, where migrating Monarch butterflies loved to roost.

Brinderson preserved and relocated 74 of the pines, including 17 Torrey pines, as part of the approval process. Those specimen trees have made Smithcliffs uniquely appealing to residents past and present (along with the world-class views and custom homes), if not the butterflies, and are part of the public-facing aesthetic of the exclusive private community.

Above: Former main entrance gate to Smithcliffs, 10010 North Coast Highway, Laguna Beach.

Right: View of pine trees and gardens facing northeast.

Smithcliffs featured 100 pine trees on the 10-acre site, most of which were preserved and replanted around the gated community.

ART & SAINT LAURENT

Part three of Blue Door Magazine’s exploration of the creative genius of Yves Saint Laurent looks at how YSL fashion was influenced by his love of art

Yves Saint Laurent ensembles inspired by Pierre Bonnard, Spring-Summer 2001.

Photographed in front of (left to right): The Garden (c. 1936), Lunch (1932), and La Toilette (1934) by Pierre Bonnard, Musée d’Art Moderne Paris.

© Yves Saint Laurent / Nicolas Mathéus

From the ancient world to pop art, Yves Saint Laurent took inspiration from art history as he combined colors, carved out new forms, and rethought the structure of garments in order to create his own masterpieces. The unique dialogue that existed between Saint Laurent and the myriad sources of inspiration he found in the fine arts, spanning a vast range of cultures throughout history, was a key component of the couturier’s ingenuity and boundless creativity.

In January 1962, Yves Saint Laurent launched his very first collection. To celebrate the anniversary of the founding of his couture house, the Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris juxtaposed his creations with artworks that inspired them from the collections of five major Paris institutions: Centre Pompidou, Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris, Musée du Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Musée National Picasso, Paris. Images and insights from the groundbreaking exhibitions can be found in a stunning book, Yves Saint Laurent & Art.

“Homage to Piet Mondrian” dresses in front of Composition with Red, Yellow, Blue and Black (1921) by Piet Mondrian, Kunstmuseuem Den Haag, The Hague, January 12, 1966. Photograph by Eric Koch. Eric Koch / Nationaal Archief

“I believe the work of a couturier is very close to that of an artist. I have constantly drawn a quality of inspiration from the work of contemporary painters: Picasso, Matisse, Mondrian…”

—Yves Saint Laurent

Yves Saint Laurent, “Homage to Fernand Léger” gown, Autumn-Winter 1981-82, photographed with Polychrome Flower (1952) by Fernand Léger (left), Centre Pompidou. © Yves Saint Laurent / Nicolas Mathéus

Yves Saint Laurent’s creative impulse was intimately linked to artworks he encountered and to artists who inspired him. It was Yves Saint Laurent who opened museum doors to the world of fashion.

The book offers an incisive look at the work of one of France’s greatest fashion innovators alongside pieces from these esteemed museums’ permanent collections.

Yves Saint Laurent is the first fashion designer to have established a real dialogue with artists and the arts of the past. In his Fall-Winter 1965 collection, he presented a series of dresses in homage to Piet Mondrian.

By invoking the aesthetic world of Mondrian, and later those of Serge Poliakoff and Tom Wesselmann, Yves Saint Laurent was able to “translate” two-dimensional paintings into new works of art in three dimensions. He set their art into motion.

This creative dialogue with artists continued throughout his career, with tributes to Henri Matisse, Georges Braque, Pierre Bonnard, Fernand Léger, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso.

The museum exhibitions involved similar dialogue: Each pairing between Saint Laurent and the artists and their work was conceived in close collaboration with the various directors and curators of the partner museums, since the way they look at the work of Yves Saint Laurent echoes the way they look at their own collections.

Andy Warhol, Portraits of Yves Saint Laurent, 1972, Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris. © The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by ADAGP, Paris, 2022.

The juxtapositions highlight the inventiveness of Yves Saint Laurent’s pluralistic and multi-faceted gaze.

The couturier also cultivated an aesthetic conversation with works from the past. Whether Greek blackand red figure vases, Bambara sculptures, Japanese or Chinese art, Yves Saint Laurent’s creative impulse was intimately linked to artworks he encountered and to artists who inspired him.

Yves Saint Laurent was deeply in tune with the most noteworthy artistic movements of the 20th century. Picasso holds a special place in the couturier’s work.

In 1988, Saint Laurent took up a new challenge, adopting the vocabulary of cubism, transposing Picasso’s deconstruction and destructuring to couture.

Yves Saint Laurent also opened museum doors to the world of fashion. He was the first living fashion designer to have been the subject of a major retrospective, mounted at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York in 1983.

Curated by Diana Vreeland, the exhibition was seen by 640,000 visitors and paved the way for numerous other comprehensive exhibitions devoted to fashion designers since then.

Naomi Campbell wearing the Yves Saint Laurent “Homage to Vincent Van Gogh” jacket. Polaroid taken by couture house staff, Spring-Summer 1988.

Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris

Yves Saint Laurent & Art

Edited by Madison Cox, Mouna Mekouar, and Stephan Janson

Published by Thames & Hudson

THE ART OF FASHION: SCP X OCMA

It’s an OC art and fashion collaboration with stunning Spring 2023 looks courtesy of South Coast Plaza fabulously photographed at the new Orange County Museum of Art.

Left: Bally, South Coast Plaza

Below: Alexander McQueen

Above: Celine Right: Gucci South Coast Plaza

Left: Max Mara

Above: Bottega Veneta South Coast Plaza

Left: Givenchy

Right: Dior

South Coast Plaza

Photographer An Le Model Fernanda Ly

Produced by Brogan Tennyson Group for South Coast Plaza

South Coast Plaza 3333 Bristol Street Costa Mesa southcoastplaza.com

Orange County Museum of Art 3333 Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa ocma.art

Left: Loewe

Right: Zimmerman South Coast Plaza

GO ASK ALICE: OCMA’S NEXT ACT

ALICE NEEL was one of the great American painters of the 20th century and a pioneer among women artists. The exhibition Feels Like Home at Orange County Museum of Art focuses on Neel’s honest, intimate paintings of her home, children, animals, and expanded family.

A painter of people, landscape, and still life, Alice Neel (1900-1984)was never fashionable or in step with avantgarde movements. Neel’s style was distinctively her own. She painted life around her in the mid-20th century: the kids who came knocking on her door, intellectuals, writers, dancers, petty gangsters, dancers, activists, pregnant women. She painted all of them with great tenderness and humor: her portraits capture a place and time, but also Neel’s own drive to connect and engage with everyone in her orbit.

The exhibition Feels Like Home at Orange County Museum of Art (June 23 – October 22, 2023), focuses on a specific aspect of Neel’s art: the role of kinship, chosen family, and the importance of community. Curated by Courtenay Finn and the first exhibition from OCMA’s chief curator, the show features a selection of 40 paintings, many from Neel’s estate.

Images of Neel’s beloved New York City are combined with paintings of parents and siblings, embraces between children and their beloved pets, and detailed insights into the artists and poets in Neel’s circle—revealing the extraordinary breadth of an artist for whom there was no separation between art and life.

After the well-branded, made-for-social media sex appeal of Daniel Arsham’s art, and the range and excitement of the multiple artist California Biennial that opened the new OCMA, it will be intriguing to see how Neel’s often introspective aesthetic will play with OCMA’s large, diverse, and youthful

Right: Movie Lobby, 1932 © The Estate of Alice Neel; Images courtesy of The Estate of Alice Neel and David Zwirner

audience. More than 150,000 have visited the new museum in its first months at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. That’s more than would visit the old Newport Center location in a year, or more.

Alice Neel: Feels Like Home will be a quieter, more serious show than Arsham’s, and one that art aficionados will appreciate. Neel will also offer the younger OCMA audience the chance to engage with and learn about an influential artist who died before many of them were born, but whose ideas and interests remain intensely relevant.

Widely recognized as one of America’s great artists, Neel was never restrained by convention. She

Mr. Greene’s Hands, 1946

Village Party, 1933

© The Estate of Alice Neel; Images courtesy of The Estate of Alice Neel and David Zwirner

Ginny and Elizabeth, 1975

Kevin and Andy, 1980

Ian and Mary, 1971

© The Estate of Alice Neel; Images courtesy of The Estate of Alice Neel and David Zwirner

Nuns in the Park, 1946

© The Estate of Alice Neel; Images courtesy of The Estate of Alice Neel and David Zwirner

Julie and Aristotle, 1967

broke barriers throughout her life, celebrating the freedom of women to express their independence and take pride in their bodies.

Neel’s life and work was infused with an interest in all humanity. She had a sensitivity for those who suffered from and fought against social discrimination.

Brought together for the first time in OCMA’s exhibition, the works in Feels Like Home show the world from Neel’s unique point of view, reminding us that there is a multitude of ways to make and build a home.

Alice Neel: Feels Like Home

June 23, 2023-October 22, 2023

Orange County Museum of Art

3333 Avenue of the Arts

Costa Mesa

ocma.art

Left: Hartley with Cat, 1969

Above: Ginny and the Parrot, 1970

© The Estate of Alice Neel; Images courtesy of The Estate of Alice Neel and David Zwirner

BEYOND THE BLUEPRINT WITH BURKHART BROS

For their spring Chefs Series event, Burkhart Brothers Construction welcomed guest chef, Brazilian-born, AJSA Japanese-trained Chef Bruno Aguirre de Oliveira, into their state-of-the-art Miele kitchen “home” surrounded by community tastemakers and leaders across a plethora of industries in Orange County, including several city council members.

Guests were welcomed by hosts Bryan and Mark Burkhart to enjoy a six-course wine pairing experience curated meticulously by Chef Bruno and Bryan Burkhart in partnership with Astrea Caviar. The menu included specialty wines and bubbles selected by Bryan from his collection with a menu to die for. Along with Chef’s signature “million-dollar filet-o-fish” sandwich composed of fresh swordfish, beluga caviar tartare, pillow bread, and truffled micro-greens and decadent A5 Wagyu nigiri topped with shaved black truffle, Astrea caviar, and 24-karat-gold flake. The lavish menu alone was something to be celebrated!

Notables in attendance included architect Brion Jeannette, Geoff Sumich, John Stanaland, Rona Grace, Drew D’Angelo, YardHouse founder Steele Platt, NB City Councilmen Joe Stapleton and Erik Weigand, and publicist Alexandra Taylor. The Burkhart Chefs Series is not just caviar and dreams—it has become a coveted invite to receive, with a curated list of guests offering priceless connection to the community and bringing together the best of the best across many industries under one roof, breaking bread the Burkhart way. Cheers to that and Bravo Chef Bruno! burkhartbros.com

1. Chef Bruno Aguirre de Oliveira, Bryan Burkhart, and

2. Brion Jeanette and associate

3. Burkhart guests enjoy a pairing overview with Chef in the Burkhart master kitchen

4. Decadent final course of A5 Wagyu, Astrea Caviar, fresh shaved black truffle, and 24-karat -gold flake

5. Chef Bruno Aguirre de Oliveira

6. Alexandra Taylor and Chef Bruno

7. John Stanaland, Laura Brophy, and Geoff Sumich

8. Drew D’Angelo of SkySail Coastal and Austin Peters

9. Joe Stapleton of Newport Beach City Council and Spinnaker Investment Group, Joe Sandoval of Happy Dad Hard Seltzer, Adisen Little of Valia Properties

10. Victor Jiminez of MWA + Associates and Robert Drenk of Optimum Mortgage

HELPING KIDS, CDM-STYLE

OC design and real estate industry supports CDM schools

The CdM Home Tour, sponsored by Valia and Barclay Butera, was attended by many friends and neighbors who provided incredible support and rallied behind local schools. Their presence helped to provide much-needed resources and support for CDM Middle and High School, helping to shape the future leaders of tomorrow.

The tour is an annual full-day event that includes breakfast, tours of stunning homes, lunch at the Civic Center with pop-up boutiques, and an after-party. The generosity and unwavering commitment to the community inspired everyone to continue making a positive impact. Next year’s 50th annual CdM Home Tour, also sponsored by Valia and Barclay Butera, promises to continue this incredible tradition.

cdmhometour.com

1. Barclay Butera, Gina Jaha, and Timothy Tamura

2. Keith and Kristine Flores

3. Lorie Swatsek, Kym Whitney, and Nick Lind

4. Newport Beach Mayor Joe Stapleton

5. Chef Dusty Vraneza

6. Shea Givens

7. Mimi and Nelson Holdo

8. Jessica Jones, Renee Dee, Rona Graf

9. Hannah Berbos, Pam Hardenbergh, and Emily Evans

10. Deena Nichols and Aimee Porter

11. Laura Brophy and Hugo Landa Garcia

11 10

1. 1530 Anita, Newport Beach | Sold Pre-Completion | Top Sale

2.

Corona del Mar | Sold In 2 Days, Over List Price

3. 2306 Margaret, Newport Beach | Sold In Three Weeks

4. 412

Corona del Mar | Sold In One Day At 100% Of List Price | Represented Buyers and Sellers

|

In Baycrest | Represented Sellers

404 Heliotrope,

Represented Sellers

Represented Buyers and Sellers

½ Carnation,

5. 708 ½ Heliotrope, Corona del Mar

Sold At 100% Of List Price In One Week | Represented Sellers

2.

1.

3.

5.

4.

Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2023 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker, Coldwell Banker logos, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker ® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.(32093019)

1. 1880 N El Camino Real #74 & #75 | Offered at $8,500,000 Main home: 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | Guest Home: 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | Two Homes on the Oceanfront

2. 2511 Seaview, Corona del Mar | Offered at $5,499,000 Duplex | Upper unit: 3 Bedrooms | Lower Unit: 2 Bedrooms | Corner Lot

3. 22841 Via Orvieto, Dana Point | Offered At $4,545,000 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms | 4,067 Sq Ft Home | 16,709 Sq Ft Lot Emerald Ridge Estate

4. 502 Jasmine, Corona del Mar | Offered At $3,395,000 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathsrooms | 2,070 Sq Ft Home | Front Unit Entirely Remodeled

4.

1.

2.

3.

Fourth Ave, Corona del Mar | Offered At $2,995,000 2

| 1,370 Sq Ft Home | Rear Home

|

|

1,520 Sq Ft Home | Rear Home

949.702.7211 | caseylesher@gmail.com | caseylesher.com CalRE# 01795953

5. 3530

Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathrooms

Corner Lot | Thoroughly Upgraded

6. 328 Broadway, Eastside Costa Mesa

Offered At $2,595,000 Duplex | Front Home: 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath | Rear Home: 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath, Plus Casita

7. 426½ Carnation, Corona del Mar

Offered At $2,195,000 2 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath |

Detached Condo

8. 718½ Marguerite, Corona del Mar | Offered At $1,995,000 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms | 1,150 Sq Ft | Rear Home Unique and Refreshing Floorplan

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As Corona del Mar’s most prolific real estate agent in decades, Casey Lesher not only transformed the client experience, he has also defined the market by determining property values. Enduring every imaginable market over the last 15 years, Lesher’s experience and instincts continue to facilitate success for his clients.

“I enjoy representing listings deemed difficult or hard to sell,” he says. “I know how to make relevant buyer connections with any type of property and these sales are some of the most rewarding of my career.”

Consistently ranked as a top agent nationwide and across the state, he’s also the #1 agent in both sales volume and units sold in Corona del Mar for the last eight years.

With so much success, he remains loyal to the relationships and community that support his growth. From his newly expanded office in Corona del Mar, his support staff affords him the ability to spend valuable time in the field. A longtime sponsor of the Corona del Mar Farmers Market, he spends his Saturdays there handing out reusable totes and sharing market insights.

“This business is the air that I breathe,” he says. “I’ve always enjoyed being of service. My ongoing relationship with the people of this community enhances my ability to convey the intrinsic value of this special place.”

While Lesher continues to represent clients throughout Orange County, his dedication to Corona del Mar is reflected in his contribution of resources and time to organizations, including the Corona del Mar Christmas Walk and the Corona del Mar 5K, as well as local schools and nextgeneration business leaders. He also works closely with Harvesters and The Second Harvest Food Bank Orange County.

“It’s an honor to represent people and their homes,” he says. “I’m motivated by helping my clients to best position their properties for success in today’s market.”

*In total sales units and volume, city of Corona del Mar. Source CRMLS. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2023 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker, Coldwell Banker logos, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. (32093019)